Child-Proof Your Holiday Season

Clean up immediately after a holiday party. A toddler could rise early and choke on leftover food or come in contact with alcohol or tobacco.

Decorations

Remember that the homes you visit may not be childproofed. Keep an eye out for danger spots.

Keep a laminated list with all of the important phone numbers you or a baby-sitter are likely to need in case of an emergency. Include the police and fire department, your pediatrician and the national Poison Help Line, 1-800-222-1222.

Traveling, visiting family members, getting presents, shopping, etc., can all increase your child's stress levels. Trying to stick to your child's usual routines, including sleep schedules and timing of naps, can help you and your child enjoy the holidays and reduce stress.

Use care with "fire salts," which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten. Keep them away from children.

Outdoor Fun

Make sure your child's gloves and shoes stay dry. If either becomes wet, change your child into a dry pair.

Do not allow sledding on or into the roadway. Look for shallow slopes that are free of trees and fences.

Most skiing and skating injuries involve twists, sprains and strains. You can reduce the chance of injury by taking skiing or skating lessons and using the right size equipment.

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